Learning Resources Fizzy Volcano Preschool Science Lab (Model LER2895) Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Learning Resources Fizzy Volcano Preschool Science Lab is designed to introduce young scientists to the exciting world of chemical reactions through hands-on experimentation. This kit provides child-friendly tools and activities to help develop observation, experimentation, and fine motor skills. It allows children to explore basic chemistry and geology concepts by creating fizzing, foaming volcanic eruptions using common household ingredients.

Safety Information

• This kit contains small parts. Adult supervision is required, especially for children under 3 years of age, to prevent choking hazards.
• Always use the kit on a protected surface, such as a baking tray or newspaper, to contain any spills or messes from experiments.
• Ensure all ingredients used for experiments (e.g., baking soda, vinegar, food coloring) are non-toxic and safe for children.
• Do not ingest any materials or solutions used in the experiments.
• Wash hands thoroughly before and after conducting experiments.

What's in the Box

The Fizzy Volcano Preschool Science Lab includes the following 13 pieces:

• 1 Volcano flask (red, central piece)
• 1 Volcano base (brown, with slots for tools and dinosaurs)
• 3 Test tubes (clear, with blue and red lids)
• 2 Lids for test tubes
• 1 Funnel (green)
• 1 Eye dropper (orange)
• 1 Stir stick/spoon (yellow)
• 1 Two-piece fossil maker (gray)
• 2 Dinosaur figures (small, orange/red)
• 1 Full-color experiment guide with 10 kid-safe experiments

Image: All components of the Fizzy Volcano Preschool Science Lab.

Setup

1. Unpack Components: Carefully remove all 13 pieces from the packaging.
2. Prepare Work Area: Choose a flat, stable surface for your experiments. It is highly recommended to place the volcano base on a large tray or baking sheet to contain any overflow from eruptions.
3. Assemble Volcano: Place the red volcano flask into the central opening of the brown volcano base.
4. Arrange Tools: Place the test tubes, funnel, eye dropper, and stir stick into their designated slots around the volcano base. Position the dinosaur figures as desired.
5. Gather Household Ingredients: Most experiments require common household items such as baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring (not included). Ensure these are readily available before starting.

Image: The Fizzy Volcano kit set up with tools and dinosaurs.

Operating the Fizzy Volcano

The included full-color guide provides 10 kid-safe experiments. Here's a general overview of how to conduct a basic volcano eruption:

1. Add Baking Soda: Using the yellow stir stick/spoon, place 1-2 spoonfuls of baking soda into the red volcano flask.
2. Prepare Vinegar Solution: In one of the clear test tubes, pour a small amount of vinegar. You can add a few drops of food coloring (not included) to the vinegar for a more colorful eruption.
3. Initiate Eruption: Carefully pour the colored vinegar from the test tube into the volcano flask. Observe as the chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar creates a fizzing, foaming eruption!
4. Experiment with Variables: Try different amounts of baking soda or vinegar, or experiment with adding a drop of dish soap (not included) to create more foam. Always refer to the experiment guide for specific instructions and variations.

Image: Child initiating a volcano eruption with colored liquid.

Using the Lab Tools:

• Funnel: Use the green funnel to easily pour liquids into the test tubes or volcano flask without spills.
• Eye Dropper: The orange eye dropper is perfect for precise measurements of liquids or for adding small amounts of food coloring. This helps develop fine motor skills.
• Fossil Maker: The two-piece gray fossil maker can be used with modeling clay (not included) to create dinosaur fossils. Place a dinosaur figure inside, press the clay around it, and then open to reveal the fossil impression.

Image: Child using the lab tools for an experiment.

Official Product Video:

Video: An overview of the Learning Resources Fizzy Volcano Preschool Science Lab, demonstrating its components and how to perform basic experiments, including a volcano eruption and using the fossil maker. This video highlights the educational benefits and ease of use for young children.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: After each use, rinse all plastic components (volcano flask, base, test tubes, funnel, dropper, stir stick, fossil maker, dinosaurs) with warm water and mild soap. Ensure all residue from experiments is removed.
• Drying: Allow all pieces to air dry completely before storing to prevent mold or mildew.
• Storage: The volcano base is designed for easy storage, with slots for all the smaller tools. Store the entire kit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

• Model Number: LER2895
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 8.5 x 5 inches (L x W x H)
• Item Weight: 12 ounces
• Recommended Age: 4 - 10 years
• Material: Durable, BPA-free plastic
• Language: English
• Manufacturer: Learning Resources

Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, replacement parts, or customer support, please visit the official Learning Resources website or contact their customer service department directly. Contact details are typically available on the product packaging or their official website.

You can find more information and products from Learning Resources at their Amazon Store.